Seven stories about Vietnamese women spanning different generations, exploring their inner lives and forbidden loves.

The inner lives and forbidden loves of seven Vietnamese women form the beautiful string that runs through director Cuong Ngo's feature film debut, Pearls of the Far East. Adapted from award-winning stories by Minh Ngoc Nguyen, produced by award-winning filmmakers Igor Szczurko & Tom Yarith Ker, Cuong Ngo (pronounced 'Kun Nyo') weaves a vivid, timeless and unforgettable tapestry with characters brought to life by a gorgeous cast of acclaimed talent from Vietnam, US and Canada, including actresses Truong Ngoc Anh (The White Silk Dress, 2006), Nhu Quynh (Vertical Ray of the Sun, 2000), Hong Anh (Moon at the Bottom of the Well, 2009), Ngo Thanh Van (The Clash, 2010, The Rebel, 2007), Minh Ngoc Nguyen (who also wrote the screenplay based on her own stories), and the legendary Kieu Chinh (Joy Luck Club, 1993). The breathtaking images and spectacular landscapes from the north to the south of Vietnam, beautifully lensed by Mikhail Petrenko, show sides of the country distinct from most Western depictions and frame the mysteries and deep secrets of these lives. With a haunting and sensual musical score by composers Alexina Louie and Alex Pauk that enhances the film's quiet beauty, Pearls of the Far East invites audiences to enjoy a meditative journey that illuminates the universal thirst to love and be loved.—Matt Guerin